India extend lead at top of ICC Test rankings, as England stay fifth
CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND - MARCH 31: Joe Root of England reacting during day two of the Second Test match between New Zealand and England at Hagley Oval on March 31, 2018 in Christchurch, New Zealand. (Photo by Kai Schwoerer/Getty Images)
(Photo: Getty Images)
By Adam Ellis
India have increased their lead at the summit of the ICC Test rankings from four to 13 points, while Bangladesh have sent West Indies plummeting to ninth in the latest standings.
England remain in fifth despite a winless winter for Joe Root’s side touring Australia and New Zealand, who move up to third and drop to fourth, respectively, as part of the new cycle for the rankings taking effect.
The latest update has dropped the results from the 2014-15 period to aid India’s hold on top spot following a run of nine series wins in ten since the start of 2015 – a winning streak ended by South Africa at the start of this year.
No longer associate nations, Ireland and Afghanistan will enter the rankings once they play their historic Tests against Pakistan and India.
1 India – 125
2 South Africa – 112
3 Australia – 106
4 New Zealand – 102
5 England – 98
6 Sri Lanka – 94
7 Pakistan – 86
8 Bangladesh – 75
9 West Indies – 67
10 Zimbabwe – 2